To celebrate Arbor Day this year, Disney is featuring a cast member who has spent over four decades caring for the gardens at EPCOT.

Gary – EPCOT Urban Forester

Gary first started out as a gardener as he enjoyed being outside and working with plants. He has since worked his way up to Urban Forester, overseeing a team of arborists who care for the thousands of trees across the property. He notes the unparalleled impact of the work at EPCOT, as he is “caring for landscapes that support storytelling, guest comfort, and the overall experience. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of.”

Though Gary has worked in other parks, such as with the alien flora in Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, EPCOT was where his career started and it continues to hold a special place in his heart. He has supported every EPCOT International Flower & Garden festival since the very first one in 1994 with behind-the-scenes work and overseeing topiary installations.

One of Gary’s proudest accomplishments is helping to build and lead an arboriculture program that prepares future cast members to continue carrying a core belief forward in the years to come: “Mature trees matter and protecting them requires foresight, patience, and advocacy.”

The 2026 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival runs through June 1. You can read our full guide here.

Will you be visiting EPCOT during the Flower & Garden Festival? Let us know on social media.

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